Maine in Winter: Top 10 For Families

My family has started to make an annual trek to southern Maine for a weekend getaway before the holidays. While, Maine might seem like a place to stop and enjoy a relaxing summer getaway, wintering up here is equally beautiful and fun (and prices can't be beat)!

1. Marginal Way
This approximately 1 mile walk along the water in Ogunquit, is hands down one of my favorite places in the world. It is impossible to not feel the power of the ocean as you stroll here. When we come to Maine I feel home when we stop here. You can enjoy scenic views, stroll with your family, and do some seaside exploring here.

2. Kennebunkport Christmas Prelude
This sweet little town is lit up like something out of Americana history! And if you time your trip right you can visit during the tree lighting and fireworks celebration (usually the beginning of December). I love the way it feels here! We always make sure to stop in the candy shop, candle shop, and general store here!

3. Nubble Lighthouse
This is my very favorite lighthouse and you can park just across the water from it and the a short beach stroll here. Even if you only have time to stop and enjoy it for a few minutes, it is worth the stop to check it out, hear about the rich history, and maybe snap a few pictures.

4. Seashore Trolley Museum
Although this place is open year around, at Christmas your $10 per person trolley ride includes warm baked cookies and hot cocoa! And the trolley cars are decorated for the holidays with fresh wreaths and holiday lights!

5. Wells Beach
I love a beautiful beach any time of year, and this is no exception! I have never been here in the summer so I will leave it up to Trip Advisor to share some info and I will just share the love!

6. Weathervane Restaurant (and Outlet Shopping)
One of our family traditions is a stop for dinner at The Weathervane. Located right near the outlets in Kittery, this is a chain but it is located right across the street from one of our favorite stores in Maine: The Kittery Trading Post. If these aren't up your alley, there are lots of other great options located within the outlets right here!

7. Fort William Park, Ruins
Although they are covered in graffiti and you have to be careful when exploring, our kids have the best time checking out the Battery Keys! The batteries are on the same park property where you can explore natural walking paths, breathtaking views of the ocean, and spot lots of great wildlife. You can also visit the lighthouse featured next!

8. Portland Head Lighthouse
My second favorite lighthouse to visit, and right in the same park at Fort William, parking can be hard but it really is beautiful! The last time we stopped here we spotted seals of the coast in the water!

As seen from the battery!

9. Cape Whoopies
We stumbled upon this adorable little stop on our way to exploring in Port Elizabeth and it did not disappoint! Amazingly friendly owner and workers, windows to watch bakers, and kombucha on tap! Can you ask for anything more?

10. The Sweatshirt Shop
We have to give a shoutout to our favorite shop- the Sweatshirt Shop in Wells! We stop here for souvenirs each trip and they are priced great and wonderful quality!